Ever since Burna Boy put on that vintage print shirt and those Versace inspired black and gold glasses, young Nigerians have become obsessed with vintage wear. Many haven’t been able to indulge in their obsession though, because good vintage inspired wear is hard to come by and even when you do find it, they cost an arm and a leg.
It is amazing to see a brand out of Port Harcourt harness great tailoring, an eye for fabric and almost unprecedented social media savvy come from relative obscurity to become one of the most popular vintage mass market brands in the country.
Retrocode was started by Cohan in early 2015 and in two short years, has sold out hundreds of shirts and gained the attention of celebrities like Seyi Shay and Patoranking. This is practically unprecedented for a brand that managed with only a Twitter presence for the first year of it’s existence and an Instagram account that is only 2 months old.
Cohan also popularized the ‘tab’ system, a system that allows people anonymously buy shirts for others by opening a ‘tab’ for them. This gifting system means everyone can get in on Retrocode, even if it is personally not your style. What could be more awesome than that?
These are some of our favorite looks from Retrocode.
We love this shirt, because its colour blocking gives us major Soprano vibes, and how can you not love that print?
Available for order. #retrocode.. 😍 #retrocode #retroglam #retrocode #retroglam.
A photo posted by Retrocode (@retroc0de) on
Model Makida Moka rocks this muted print so well, we can’t help but want one too.
This ombre print is gorgeous and reminds us of the sunniest of summers.
Florals are always, always in.
Oversized and damask style prints, doubly on trend.
♥. Worn as a jacket. 😍 #retrocode #retroglam #retrocode #retroglam #retrocode #retroglam
A photo posted by Retrocode (@retroc0de) on
As are Kimono jackets, which Retrocode has in spades.
And of course, some vintage inspired prints.
You can check retrocode out here.